CAMPAIGNERS are 'thrilled' with the new legislation which could see an end to puppy farming for good.

Known as Lucy's Law, this will mean a ban on the sale of puppies and kittens from third parties from Spring 2020, making buyers contact with breeders directly.

Diana Brimblecombe Animal Rescue Centre (DBARC) in Wokingham said they look after around 40 ex-puppy farm dogs on average per year.

Donna Penfold, trustee at DBARC, said: "We mainly get discarded adult dogs that are of no market value to puppy farm breeders and this has increased over the years.

"Changes in the law mean there will be puppies bred at a slower rate which is going to make a big difference."

The law is named after a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, called Lucy who died in 2016 after being poorly treated on a puppy farm.

The ban is scheduled to come into force on April 6 next year, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said.

The new legislation would mean animals have to be born and reared in a safe place, with their mother and to only be sold from their place of birth.

The RSPCA said it was thrilled with the new law but proper enforcement is needed if it is to put a stop to puppy farming.

READ MORE: Rescued DBARC puppy farm dog gives birth to ten pups on Mother's Day

Chris Sherwood, RSPCA chief executive, said: "We are absolutely thrilled with the announcement which, if properly enforced, will help protect thousands of puppies and their mothers who are the victims of this horrific trade.

"We believe all puppies and kittens should be born and reared in a suitable environment, with their mother, where their welfare will be the primary concern.

"We hope this ban - alongside the tougher licensing regulations that were introduced in October, will help to stamp out the underground trade that exploits these wonderful animals simply to make a quick buck."

Bracknell News: The ban is scheduled to come into force April 2020The ban is scheduled to come into force April 2020

Puppies that are raised in terrible conditions will often develop health conditions which may require thousands of pounds in veterinary costs, said DBARC.

Donna added: "We take in a variety of dogs here, we have three on site which are all ex-puppy farm dogs with hereditary blindness and cataracts.

"Puppy farming will mean animals can be bred in better conditions."